With support from Pro Helvetia through its mandate with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Speak the Mind Poetry Sessions returns to the Artscape in Cape Town in 2010. The performance poetry event has enjoyed a successful five-year run in Johannesburg as part of the Jo’burg Arts Alive International Festival, and is in its third year running in Cape Town.
“Words Without Bounds” is the theme in 2010. According to organiser Langa Mancunga, the theme emphasizes two powerful points about this year’s event. “Firstly, it is due to the fact that we have incorporated a reggae component into this traditionally spoken word event. For us, this proves that one cannot confine words to just verses or prose. Secondly, this theme endorses our position that poetry and words cut across race, gender, creed – it fundamentally accentuates the internationality of the festival,” says Langa.
On 10 and 11 June, the event will showcase an eclectic mix of international wordsmiths and musicians on a single stage: Samantha Thornhill (Trinidad/USA), Burni Aman, Cosmas Mairosi (Zimbabwe), Lesego Rampolokeng, Tumi Molekane, Khadija Heeger, Nomsa Mazwai, Sakhile Moleshe and Sugah. Durban-based emcee Iain ‘Ewok’ Robinson will present the theatrical Ewok Is Live set, accompanied by a hip-hop DJ on turntables. Also on the bill are multi-instrumentalist Dave Ferguson and the Kalahari Surfers, who contribute a definitive sound, approach and groove to proceedings.
On 12 and 13 June three reggae bands take to the stage to showcase South African reggae. Azania, The Rudimentals and Ghetto Youth (Crosby, Sugah and Spencer) will pump out Jamaican rhythms with African flair while, in between sets, drops of Afro-soul and funk beats will be supplied by DJ Raiko.
Bookings can be made through Computicket.
For more information:
Monisha Schoeman on +27 21 410 9987 / monishias@artscape.co.za
Langa Mancunga +27 12 327 6163 / info@lnmentertainment.co.za
For artist information:
Candice Jansen |
